Graphical Programming Function Blocks for Clearer Logic Reuse
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing graphical programming methods for production line management are complex due to confusing connections and lack of integration with user scenarios, requiring manual programming and independent functional modules.
Innovation Solution
A graphical programming method that includes displaying a programming flowchart with function blocks, determining and configuring controls between blocks based on attribute information, and using guide information to simplify the process, allowing reuse of function blocks for similar information processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If manual programming is used with independent functional modules, then programming flexibility is achieved, but programming complexity and time consumption increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The programming system is segmented into standardized function blocks with defined interfaces and attributes. Each function block represents an independent functional module that can be configured and connected through a graphical interface, reducing programming complexity while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Function blocks are designed with universal attributes and standardized interfaces that can be configured for different applications. The same function block can serve multiple purposes by adjusting its attributes, reducing the need for custom programming while maintaining adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If traditional graphical programming flowcharts are used, then visual programming is achieved, but connection lines become confusing and understanding becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The confusing connection lines and complex flowchart structures are extracted and replaced with a simplified graphical interface that displays function blocks and their attributes directly. The connection relationships are implied through attribute matching rather than explicit visual lines, improving clarity.
Solution Approach 2:
Each function block is enhanced with local attribute information that describes its inputs, outputs, and configuration parameters. This local quality information makes each block self-descriptive, reducing the need for complex inter-block connection visualization and improving overall flowchart understandability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If independent functional modules are used without attribute descriptions, then module independence is maintained, but relationship establishment with user scenarios becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
Function blocks are equipped with configurable attributes that can be adjusted to match different user scenarios. By changing attribute values rather than restructuring modules, the system maintains module independence while achieving flexible scenario integration through parameter customization.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments include a graphical programming method comprising: in a first interface, displaying a programming flowchart matching a target task, with at least two function blocks, and using the first interface to configure the function blocks and an execution logic between the function blocks; determining a first and a second function block from the programming flowchart, wherein the first function block is used for obtaining two pieces of information to be processed, and the second function block is used for obtaining information processing results corresponding to the first information; and configuring a control between the first function block and the second function block, used for determining a current information processing result according to the first information currently detected from the first function block and transmitting the current processing result to the second function block.